Nimodipine capsules
Nimodipine capsules
What is this medicine?
NIMODIPINE (nye MOE di peen) is a calcium-channel blocker. This medicine is used to treat subarachnoid hemorrhage. This is a condition in which there is bleeding into the space around the brain that causes severe headaches and stiff neck.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take this medicine at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Continue to take your medicine even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
difficulty breathing
dizziness or drowsiness
irregular or fast heartbeats (palpitations)
lightheadedness or fainting
slow heartbeat
swelling of the legs or ankles
unusual bleeding or bruising, red spots on skin
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
flushing
headache
nausea
sweating
What may interact with this medicine?
This medicine may interact with the following medications:
amiodarone
birth control pills
certain antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, and telithromycin
certain medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
certain medicines for fungal infections like fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole
certain medicines for hepatitis C infection like boceprevir and telaprevir
certain medicines for HIV like amprenavir, atazanavir, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and saquinavir
certain medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproic acid
cimetidine
conivaptan
grapefruit juice
medicines for high blood pressure
rifampin
St. John's Wort
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose, Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep foil packaged capsules in their original foil until needed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to nimodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.
Alcohol can increase the chance of getting low blood pressure. Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018